how to install shelves

Do you usually associate the drill with an object out of a horror movie? For now your fears are over! This tool is quite an ally when it comes to hanging pictures and installing shelves.

To use it, the secret is to keep your hand very steady. And mark exactly the location of the hole, to avoid damage. Today, the best drills are battery-powered, double the function of a screwdriver and weigh less than 2 kilos.

How to install any shelf

Material

🇧🇷 Ready-made shelves, sold in hypermarkets and construction material stores
🇧🇷 ruler or measuring tape
🇧🇷 pencil or pen
🇧🇷 Drilling machine
🇧🇷 drills
🇧🇷 Bushings (from 6 to 10 mm)
🇧🇷 screws
🇧🇷 masking tape

Step by step

1. Use a ruler to measure the distance from the floor to where you want to hang the shelf. This way, you prevent the piece from becoming crooked.

2. Line the floor with newspaper or a damp cloth and stick masking tape in the places on the wall that will be drilled.

3. Mark the location of the holes with a pen (or pencil).

4. Hold the drill bit at a 90o angle to the wall and drill the holes.

5. Gently, so as not to widen or damage the hole, fit the bushings.

6. Attach the support (which comes with the piece) to the wall, with a screw.

7. Place the shelf on this support, adjusting it carefully. To prevent it from falling and injuring someone, also secure it with a screw.

architect’s tip

Depending on the surface to be drilled, you will need different types of bits and screws (see below). In all cases, stick masking tape over the place where the drill will be drilled. This will prevent the surface around the hole from bursting.

Wood
Use traditional drill bits (1) and wood screws (2), with a tapered tip, without a bushing.

Concrete
Use video bits (specific for masonry) and plastic bushings (3).

Tile
Use the same bits as for concrete, but drill slowly.

Plaster
Use video drills and special wall plugs for plaster. Drill slowly.

Consulting: Gustavo Curcio